Employment in Canada rose by 17,500 jobs in October to a total of nearly 20.3 million, Statistics Canada reported today. Gains were all in part-time work, with the country adding 20,800 part-time jobs while losing 3,300 full-time jobs.

Canada’s unemployment rate increased to 5.7% in October from 5.5% in September. It marked the fourth monthly increase in the past six months.

Among industries, construction added 23,000 jobs in October while “information, culture and recreation” added 20,900 jobs. Industries with declines in employment included wholesale and retail trade, down by 21,700 jobs, and manufacturing, down by 18,800 jobs.

Employment in the public sector rose by 18,900 jobs in October, and the number of private-sector jobs increased by 200. However, the number of self employed fell by 1,700 jobs.

Alberta led employment growth among the provinces in October, adding 37,700 jobs and offsetting a decline in September. On the other hand, employment in Quebec fell by 22,100 jobs.